County Executive Robert P. Astorino announced that the Department of Health will offer free flu shots to county residents Thursday, Jan. 24 , from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Westchester County Center in White Plains.

“With so much demand for the flu shot right now, some doctors and pharmacists are having a hard time keeping up,” Astorino said in a statement.

The county now has 1,000 doses of the vaccine, which can be administered to adults and children ages 9 and up. The flu shot is safe and provides protection against three strains of the flu circulating this season.

“It’s important for everyone six months and older to get a flu shot every year,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler. “We hope residents will take advantage of this opportunity, because flu season can last well into the spring. It’s also equally important to wash your hands frequently, to avoid sick people and to stay home when you are sick.”